Jiuzhaigou National Park in northern Sichuan is one of China’s most stunning natural destinations. Famous for its crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, colorful forests, and snow-covered peaks, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Planning a trip? Here’s what you should know before you go.
Where Is Jiuzhaigou?
Jiuzhaigou is part of the Min Mountains on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, in Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. It’s approximately 400 km (250 miles) north of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province.
Jiuzhaigou
Best Time to Visit Jiuzhaigou
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Autumn (Mid-September to Late October) is the most popular time. The colorful foliage combined with the turquoise lakes creates a fairy-tale landscape.
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Spring (April–May) is also beautiful, with fresh greenery and mild temperatures.
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Summer (June–August) offers lush scenery but can be crowded.
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Winter (December–February) is less visited, but the snow-covered scenery is stunning—and peaceful.
Jiuzhaigou
How to Get There from Chengdu
There are three main ways to reach Jiuzhaigou from Chengdu:
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By Air:
Fly from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (~1 hour), then drive 1.5 hours to the park entrance. -
By Private Car or Tour Bus:
The scenic drive takes 7–9 hours and passes through Tibetan villages, mountains, and rivers. -
By Train (coming soon):
The Chengdu–Jiuzhaigou high-speed train is under construction and will significantly reduce travel time.
Entry Ticket Information
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Peak Season (April 1 – Nov 15):
Entry: ¥169 CNY
Sightseeing Bus: ¥90 CNY -
Off-Season (Nov 16 – Mar 31):
Entry: ¥80 CNY
Sightseeing Bus: ¥80 CNY
Note: Daily visitor limits apply, so book early during peak months.
What to See Inside the Park
Jiuzhaigou is shaped like a “Y” with three main valleys:
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Shuzheng Valley:
Closest to the entrance; home to Nuorilang Waterfall and Shuzheng Lakes. -
Rize Valley:
Features the most colorful lakes, including Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, and Mirror Lake. -
Zechawa Valley:
Visit Long Lake and Five-Color Pond, the park’s highest and deepest spots.
Where to Stay
The village of Zhangzha, near the park entrance, offers many hotels and guesthouses for all budgets. Staying here allows early access to the park before tour crowds arrive.
What to Eat
Local Tibetan and Qiang cuisine is common. Try:
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Yak butter tea
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Barley wine
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Grilled yak meat skewers
You’ll find small restaurants and supermarkets in Zhangzha town. Inside the park, food is limited—bring your own snacks and water.
What to Pack
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Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
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Layered clothing (weather changes quickly in the mountains)
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Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
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A refillable water bottle
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Passport (required for ticket booking and park entry)
Useful Tips
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The park is eco-protected—you can’t walk everywhere. The eco-bus system takes you to major sites.
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Bring cash or WeChat Pay—some remote areas may not accept foreign cards.
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Foreign visitors should book tickets through a local tour agency or ask their hotel for help, especially during national holidays.
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Altitude ranges from 2,000–3,100 meters—drink plenty of water and take it slow.
Book a Sichuan Tour with China Dragon Travel
Want a stress-free way to explore Jiuzhaigou, Chengdu, and beyond?
Join our 7-Day Sichuan Tour: Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou & Mount Emei
Includes: Pandas, Giant Buddha, Mt. Emei, and Jiuzhaigou
Comfortable transport, guided visits, hotels & more
View Tour Details
